Junior Orthodox Youth

HOPE/JOY is a wonderful program for children in grades 5-12. Its name is very appropriate to describe the spirit that radiates from the children who attend the gatherings. It has proven to be both popular and very successful in acheiving the goals of church ministry for children, to lead children to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. The HOPE/JOY ministry program provides wholesome and fun activities to its participants while supporting the efforts of the family to impart a positive value system on its children. HOPE/JOY meetings are an opportunity to participate in wholesome fellowship with peers and adults advisor who offer friendship and emotional support. Meetings are conducted in an informal, relaxed atmosphere that provides balance to the more formal experience of worship services and religious educational classes. The discussion segments of the teachings, songs, games, craft projects and other activities reflect and enhance the spoken message in a developmentally appropriate manner for the children of this age.

HOPE/JOY meets every other month, typically a Friday evening, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Usually we have pizza and refreshments, a topic for discussion, and a craft that coordinates with the theme of the night. We begin and end each meeting with a prayer.